'American Idol' judges through the years

CaptionHarry Connick Jr.

Frank Micelotta / Associated Press

Years on the show: 1. Singer Harry Connick Jr., who acted as a mentor for the top 5 finalists in 2010, will appear on the upcoming season of "American Idol" as a judge. Connick, along with Jennifer Lopez and Keith Urban, will make up the panel on Season 13 of "American Idol."

Years on the show: 1. Singer Harry Connick Jr., who acted as a mentor for the top 5 finalists in 2010, will appear on the upcoming season of "American Idol" as a judge. Connick, along with Jennifer Lopez and Keith Urban, will make up the panel on Season 13 of "American Idol." (Frank Micelotta / Associated Press)

Years on the show: 3. Despite revealing her departure in 2012, just one day after co-judge Steven Tyler announced his departure from "Idol," pop star Jennifer Lopez is back to judge Season 13.

Years on the show: 3. Despite revealing her departure in 2012, just one day after co-judge Steven Tyler announced his departure from "Idol," pop star Jennifer Lopez is back to judge Season 13. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Years on the show: 2. Keith Urban first appeared on "Idol" during the season 8 finale to perform his 2009 hit "Kiss a Girl" as a duet with eventual winner Kris Allen. As a judge, the country star's quiet and kind demeanor has made him a fan favorite. He's the sole returning judge from last...

Years on the show: 2. Keith Urban first appeared on "Idol" during the season 8 finale to perform his 2009 hit "Kiss a Girl" as a duet with eventual winner Kris Allen. As a judge, the country star's quiet and kind demeanor has made him a fan favorite. He's the sole returning judge from last... (Evan Agostini / Invision / Associated Press)